The winter season has arrived, and it’s time for the flu and cold to start hitting the people. While you do everything in your power to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy, you may still get sick.
Keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy during the holidays is important, especially if you’re young, old, or have a compromised immune system. Here are some common illnesses people get sick from during this time of year.
The Common Cold
This cold is a viral infection typically involving cough, sore throat, headache, and nasal congestion. It can occur anytime throughout the year, although it’s most commonly seen during winter. Common cold symptoms usually improve within a week, with the worst symptoms being on days 3-5. One of the best ways to avoid this cold is by washing your hands consistently throughout the day.
Flu
Although it’s commonly mistaken for a cold, the flu can actually come on quickly and cause severe symptoms such as a high fever and body aches. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent the illness from spreading to your family and friends.
Bronchiolitis
One of the most common respiratory infections is Bronchiolitis, which usually involves coughing, low-grade fevers, and nasal congestion. The RSV virus can trigger it. Like the flu, it can resemble a common cold before it becomes more severe. Most of those symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, and a dehydrated body.
Strep Throat
Most people who get strep throat are school-aged children. It can cause stomachache, sore throat, and headaches. Although it can’t trigger cold symptoms, it can be treated with antibiotics.
Norovirus
The Norovirus is one of the most common types of stomach bug that can occur during the winter season. It can cause severe diarrhea and vomiting. However, its symptoms usually go away within a couple of days.
Sinus infections
The buildup of germs in your nasal and sinus cavities causes a sinus infection. Getting a cold or a weakened immune system can increase the risk of getting a sinus infection. Seasonal allergies can also make people more susceptible to getting a sinus infection.
It’s important to wash your hands, cough into a tissue, and avoid touching other people while you’re sick. During winter, your immune system can handle illnesses without treatment. However, if you’re still experiencing severe symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor.